January OFS Jobs Report: Energy Services Sector Signals Cautious Start to 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HOUSTON — The Energy Workforce & Technology Council (EWTC) released its January 2026 employment data today, revealing a continued lean toward workforce consolidation as the industry navigates a complex start to the year.

Energy services employment totaled 625,256 jobs in January, a decline of 1,254 positions from December, according to preliminary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Energy Workforce analysis.

January’s data follows a year of measured workforce decline in 2025, and signals continued moderation as companies maintain a disciplined approach to hiring and capital allocation in an ever-changing operating environment.

“As we begin 2026, policy consistency will be critical,” said Energy Workforce President Molly Determan. “Companies are operating with discipline, but long-term workforce growth depends on a stable regulatory environment that supports domestic energy development and American competitiveness.”

Determan noted that service companies continue investing in training, technology, and workforce development to ensure they remain competitive and responsive as market conditions evolve.

“Our sector has consistently demonstrated the ability to adapt,” she said. “Companies are positioning themselves to respond quickly as demand strengthens, while maintaining the skilled workforce that underpins American energy production.”

State-by-State Breakdown

TX       304,687

LA       52,209

OK      47,582

CO       25,385

NM      23,385

CA       22,884

PA       22,634

ND      19,445

WY     14,506

OH      10,379

AK      9,691

WV     9,566

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About Energy Workforce & Technology Council

Energy Workforce & Technology Council is the national trade association for the global energy technology and services sector, representing more than 650,000 U.S. jobs in the technology-driven energy value chain. Energy Workforce works to advance member policy priorities and empower the energy workforce of the future.

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